Stoke-on-Trent city council explains methane extraction plans: 'To be absolutely clear, this is not fracking'

We are tapping into a traditional resource for the benefit of the people of Stoke-on-Trent and indeed methane from coal mines has powered industry in the city for decades, so this is nothing new.....

.....The methane here is contained in unused coal mines which contain natural fissures so there is no need to fracture the rocks to get it out. This use of energy provides a stable, local source and it uses less energy than importing gas too....